With gas prices and the cost of plane tickets being what they are, travel may not be possible this summer. Fear not, hard workers. Lack of travel doesn't necessarily mean no vacation, it simply means planning a stay-cation instead. You can stay at home, but still feel as though you've gone away. Here are some tips that will make the process easier.
Do not look at your work e-mails.
If you were away on a tropical beach, you wouldn't be checking for messages from your boss every 15 minutes, so don't do it now. This is your time off. Enjoy it.
No errands or chores allowed.
Again, the key is to think of this as a real vacation. This is your time off. If you would spend your week away running to the dry cleaner, the grocery store, or the post office, then there's no need to do it during your staycation.
Try new places and activities.
Embrace your inner tourists and do the things in your town that you always swear you'll get around to "one day." Check out a museum or a nearby festival. Try the new restaurant that just opened. By staying away from your usual week-night haunts, you'll feel as though you're really somewhere new because, well, you are.
Indulge in Vacation-Only behaviors.
Go ahead and read that trashy beach book you were saving for your next flight. Have a glass of wine before noon or eat unhealthy desserts. Turn off your alarm and sleep as late as you want. You deserve it.
Save the memories.
Take pictures or keep a travel journal, just as you would if your destination were farther away.
Embrace it.
OK, so you're bummed that you can't make it to Hawaii. Buy some grass skirts at a craft store and make yourself some pina coladas. Sad not to be in Italy? Get some biscotti and capuccino, then put some Italian music on in the background while you enjoy the treats. The homey touches will put you in the right mindset, without the language barriers or lost luggage.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
